Summary of Surah Ash-Shams (The Sun) – Quran Chapter 91

Summary of Surah Ash-Shams (The Sun) – Quran Chapter 91 

Surah Ash-Shams emphasizes the greatness of Allah’s creation, beginning with oaths by the sun, moon, day, night, heaven, earth, and the human soul. Allah highlights that He has instilled in every soul the knowledge of right and wrong. The chapter teaches that true success comes to those who purify their souls, while those who corrupt themselves will face destruction. 

The surah recounts the story of the people of Thamud, who arrogantly rejected the truth and killed the she-camel sent as a divine sign. As a result, Allah punished them by completely destroying them, demonstrating that He is not afraid of consequences when executing justice. 

Meaning of Surah Ash-Shams 

Surah Ash-Shams conveys the importance of self-purification and righteousness. It highlights how Allah has given humans free will and the ability to choose between good and evil. Those who follow the right path will succeed, while those who engage in corruption face divine punishment. 

Total Number of Verses 

Surah Ash-Shams consists of 15 verses. 

Introductory Words 

I have chosen the common title “The Four Surahs of Light and Darkness” for Surah Ash-Shams and the three following surahs (Surah Al-Lail, Surah Ad-Duha, and Surah Al-Inshirah). The first three of these surahs begin with oaths. In this respect, Surah Ash-Shams and Surah Al-Lail (which are also paired together) have a style similar to Surah At-Takwir and Surah Al-Infitar. 

It is worth noting that in Surah At-Takwir, the section containing oaths is relatively longer, spanning 13 verses, while the response to the oaths consists of only a single verse (verse 14). In contrast, its twin surah, Surah Al-Infitar, has a relatively shorter section of oaths, and its central theme is revealed more explicitly in the later verses. 

Similarly, in Surah Ash-Shams, the oath section is longer, consisting of eight verses, followed by only two verses as the response to the oaths. On the other hand, in Surah Al-Lail, the section of oaths is comparatively shorter, while the theme introduced in Surah Ash-Shams becomes clearer. This theme gradually progresses and reaches its peak in Surah Ad-Duha. 

Dr Israr Ahmed, an Islamic Scholar, Point of Views.